Hob Extractor Closure Element for Laminar Vapor Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooktop extractors with removable lids for closing the cooking vapor inlet opening suffer from turbulence in the vapor flow, leading to increased flow resistance, louder and more expensive fan motors, and the risk of odors rising through access openings, as well as potential injuries and damage from falling covers.
Innovation Solution
A cooktop extractor with a closure element that can be reversibly moved between horizontal and vertical orientations, using U-shaped grooves and pin-like projections for engagement, which splits the turbulent vapor stream into laminar flows, eliminating the need for additional worktop space and preventing odors from rising.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If a removable lid is used to close the cooking vapor inlet opening, then odors can be prevented from escaping and the opening can be closed, but turbulence is created in the vapor flow and access openings allow odors to rise through
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the traditional removable lid entirely and replaces it with a fixed cover frame integrated into the extractor housing. The closure function is achieved through a horizontal closure element that seals against the cover frame, eliminating the need for access openings and preventing odor escape without creating turbulence.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a removable lid that opens upward (creating turbulence and access openings), the invention inverts the closure mechanism by using a horizontal closure element that moves laterally between closed and open positions, sealing against the cover frame to prevent odor escape while maintaining smooth vapor flow.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a removable lid is used, then the opening can be closed, but the lid may fall down causing injury or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the closure element with the extractor housing structure, where the closure element is guided by the cover frame and spring mechanism. This integration ensures the closure element remains constrained to horizontal movement and cannot fall down, eliminating injury risk while maintaining the closure function.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides a cushioning force that keeps the closure element in its proper position and prevents it from falling or detaching. The spring acts as a safety mechanism that maintains controlled movement and prevents the closure element from causing injury or damage.
3Productivity
If the closure element is positioned centrally and vertically, then vapor flow is optimized, but the closure element may interfere with worktop space
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the orientation of the closure element from vertical (which would occupy worktop space) to horizontal, allowing it to move laterally in the horizontal plane. This dimensional change enables the closure element to be positioned centrally for optimal vapor flow while not interfering with worktop space, as it moves parallel to the worktop surface rather than protruding into it.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design reduces energy consumption by using smaller, quieter fan motors, prevents odors from rising, and ensures safe operation without the risk of injuries or damage from falling covers, while maintaining efficient vapor extraction.
Implementation Method 1
splits the turbulent vapor stream into laminar flows
Implementation Method 2
turbulent vapor stream
Implementation Method 3
a spring mechanism arranged in the cover frame which can be acted upon by the closure element in the closed position with a closing force
Implementation Method 4
a guide groove which runs from above in the cover frame downwards and in which the closure element can be guided in its horizontal and vertical movement
Data Source
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AI summary
Hob extractor (4) for extracting cooking vapours (3) in a vertically downward direction, in which, for reversibly closing the cooking vapour inlet opening (2), the device (1) comprises a closure element (5) which can be rotated back and forth between a horizontal orientation and a vertical orientation, wherein the closure element (5) can be reversibly fixed in a vertical orientation in the central region (11) of the width (7) of the cooking vapour inlet opening (2), wherein the closure element (5) can also be reversibly fixed in a horizontal orientation and wherein, during the reversible rotation of the closure element (5) from its horizontal into its vertical position, the axis of rotation (14) of the closure element (5) remains fixed in place or experiences a vertical and/or horizontal, guided or non-guided change in position.